LETTER | We condemn the act of police intimidation towards the organisers of the youth-led anti-graft rally “Rakyat Benci Rasuah” held on Jan 25 in Kuala Lumpur.

Is the government aiming to silence youths who speak out against corruption?

Corruption is a huge systemic problem plaguing Malaysian politics, and the youth are deeply disappointed with the Madani government’s current effort to eradicate it.

The “Rakyat Benci Rasuah” rally was the youth imitation of the previous rallies and protests of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his cliques during the Pakatan Rakyat and Reformasi era. Why are peaceful assemblies like this still facing objections from certain ministers and later intimidation from the authorities?

These actions will discourage citizens from practising their civil rights and speaking out against injustice as they risk being detained. It is also important to point out the double standard of the authority in summoning only some organisers for questioning while sparing the others. Were the organisers of the Najib Abdul Razak solidarity rally summoned for questioning too?

We stand in solidarity with these student activists and call on the government to uphold our rights to free speech and peaceful assembly. The government must carry out the reforms it promised by combating corruption and upholding civil rights, including putting an end to police intimidation of peaceful protesters.

Lastly, we call for the government to abolish the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971. As future leaders of the country, the youth must have the freedom to actively participate in political activities and grassroots organising. Only a well-informed populace can shape a progressive society.

CHEONG HUEI TING is a PSM Youth committee member.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.